Elvis Presley – Loving You

Introduction:

In 1957, a young Elvis Presley, already captivating audiences with his electrifying brand of rock and roll, stepped further into the spotlight with the release of his ballad, “Loving You.” This song marked a pivotal moment in Presley’s career, showcasing his vocal versatility and emotional depth beyond the energetic rockabilly anthems that initially propelled him to fame.

Composed by the songwriting duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, “Loving You” was written specifically for Presley’s first starring film of the same name. Released in June 1957, the movie followed the story of a truck driver named Deke Rivers, played by Presley, who dreams of becoming a country music singer. The ballad served as a central theme, reflecting Deke’s longing for love and success.

Steve Sholes, a prominent record producer who had previously worked with artists like Perry Como and The Platters, took the helm for “Loving You.” Sholes, known for his polished production style, helped craft a smooth and sophisticated soundscape for the song. The Jordanaires, a renowned vocal group who frequently provided backing vocals for Presley, added their signature harmonies, further enriching the emotional resonance of the track.

While “Loving You” deviated from the high-octane rock and roll that initially defined Presley’s sound, it resonated deeply with audiences. The song reached No. 15 on the U.S. country chart, No. 20 on the U.S. pop chart, and No. 24 on the UK Singles Chart in 1957. This success demonstrated Presley’s ability to connect with listeners beyond the confines of a single genre. “Loving You” showcased his remarkable vocal control and his ability to deliver a tender and heartfelt performance.

The impact of “Loving You” extended beyond the charts. The song became a staple of Presley’s live performances, offering a welcome contrast to his more energetic numbers. It also solidified his status as a pop culture icon, proving his ability to charm audiences with both his electrifying stage presence and his poignant ballads. “Loving You” stands as a testament to Presley’s artistic evolution and his enduring legacy as the King of Rock and Roll.

Video:

Lyrics:

I will spend my whole life through
Loving you
Just loving you

Winter, summer
Springtime, too
Loving you
Loving you

Makes no difference
Where I go or what I do
You know that I’ll always be
Loving you

Just you and
If I’m seen with someone new
Don’t be blue
Don’t you be blue
I’ll be faithful
I’ll be true

Always true
True to you
There is only one for me
And you know who
You know that I’ll always be
Loving you